It has never had the support of more than 15% of the population at one time, and because America's views are becoming more democratic

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How do Marxists normally view religion?

As an entirely conservative force. A set of ruling-class ideas that legitimise inequality

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However, what do Marxists also recognise?

That ideas can be relatively autonomous, and therefore can be independent from capitalism

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What do they therefore argue about religion?

It can have a dual character. (It can be a force for change as well as stability)

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What does Ernst Bloch (1959) believe about religion?

Religion often inhibits change, but can also inspire protest and rebellion

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What is it an expression of?

'The principle of hope'

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What does he believe about images of utopia?

They may sometimes deceive people, but they also help to create a vision of a better world and thus push for social change

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What is Liberation Theology?

A movement in Latin American Catholicism where religious authorities spoke out against military dictatorship due to their strong committment to the poor

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What does it emphasise?

"Praxis" - practical action based on theory

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What did LT help to achieve?

A resistance of dictatorship and the bringing about of democracy in Latin Americaurb

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What is a Millenarian movement?

An attempt to change the present, and to bring about the kingdom of God on earth

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What does Worsley (1986) believe that these want?

A total and imminent transformation of the world, by supernatural means rather than through social change

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Who do these normally appeal to?

The poor

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What is Gramsci (1971) interested in?

How the ruling class maintain their control over society through ideology rather than coercion

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What is hegemony?

Ideological domination or leadership over society

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He also sees how religion can benefit the working class. How?

It may allow them to see through ruling class hegemony. Some clergy may become organic intllectuals.

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What is an organic intellectual?

An individual leader who can support working class organisations with their higher intelligence

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What example does Billings (1990) use to demonstrate Gramsci's theory?

Miners in 1920s Kentucky. The miners benefitted from the leadership of organic intellectuals who were miners but also preachers and could strive for better conditions. Textile workers at the same time did not have this advantage.